Jars of Clay + Broken Vessels = Romeo and Juliette in Ancient Rome
Jars of Clay (volume 1) and Broken Vessels (volume 2) contain strong religious themes and scenes of sensuality and violence. Recommended for ages 15 and up.
With no way to prevent Helena from marrying another, Lucius flees to Rome to seek his fortune and mend his broken heart.
In a loveless marriage with a child to care for, Helena finds comfort in the most unlikely place -- with her brother amongst the Christians. The religious group is mostly ignored by the Pagan populace, until the Emperor returns to the city and celebrations are planned. There's a shortages of criminals for the games and Christians are now sought out for arrest.
Fate brings Lucius back to Carthage, where his only wish is that he will get a glimpse of the girl he still loves. But when he finally sees Helena, it's under the worse possible circumstance…
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